{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Interdistrict Discovery Magnet","outOfStateSupporters":30.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1841360,"projectId":10223654,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our STEM project and providing resources that are already making a meaningful impact in our classroom. The Picasso Tiles magnetic building stick blocks, Kid K'NEX, pipe tube learning sets, and straw constructor toys have quickly become some of our students' favorite learning tools. We are using these materials during STEM centers and engineering challenges that encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. One memorable project involved small groups designing and building bridges and towers using the magnetic blocks and construction sets. Students tested the strength of their structures, discussed ways to improve them, and worked together to redesign their creations based on what they learned.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the classroom was incredible. Students' eyes lit up as they explored the different building pieces, and many immediately began brainstorming ideas for inventions, structures, and machines they could create. Even students who are often hesitant to participate became engaged and eager to collaborate with their classmates. The hands-on nature of these STEM bins has helped foster curiosity, perseverance, and confidence as students discover that there is often more than one solution to a challenge.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue using these resources to deepen their understanding of engineering and design. Our next lessons focus on creating solutions to real-world problems, such as designing stronger bridges, building structures that can withstand specific challenges, and developing models that demonstrate simple engineering concepts. These STEM materials will allow students to plan, test, revise, and improve their designs while practicing critical thinking and collaboration skills. Thank you for investing in our students and helping provide engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers.","fullyFundedDate":1778507254027,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-engineering-building-the-futur/10223654/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Engineering: Building the Future One Piece at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Servino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1841360_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536859519302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1841360"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":10229707,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our Real-World Writing for Students project! Students have been enthusiastically brainstorming ideas for their own YouTube channels and writing introductions and scripts designed to persuade viewers to subscribe. They have also enjoyed writing thank-you notes to our librarian and other teachers, giving them an authentic opportunity to express gratitude through writing. In addition, scholars have been creating narratives inspired by their favorite holidays, such as Easter, using descriptive details and well-organized event sequences.\r\nMy students are especially excited about upcoming activities, including writing movie reviews, designing bumper stickers and catchy slogans, and creating clear directions for others to follow. These playful and engaging writing experiences help scholars understand how powerful words can be and how writing can influence, inform, and connect with others.\r\nYour support is helping my scholars build confidence as writers while developing skills that will benefit them both in and beyond the classroom. Thank you for investing in their future and inspiring a love of writing.","fullyFundedDate":1778953738147,"projectUrl":"project/real-world-writing-for-students/10229707/","projectTitle":"Real World Writing for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":10229802,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping bring this writing project \r\nto life. Your generosity has made an immediate and meaningful difference for my scholars. \r\nThe Teachers Pay Teachers gift cards you helped fund have allowed me to purchase creative, standards‑aligned writing resources that support all learners. In addition to strengthening daily writing routines, my scholars have already begun applying these new skills in meaningful ways. They recently constructed informational short essays about their favorite animals, using TPT graphic organizers and models to guide their thinking. Scholars are also learning how to stretch simple sentences by adding details that clarify what they are writing about, helping them grow as more expressive and precise writers. During grammar practice, they used highlighters to annotate parts of speech—identifying nouns, verbs, and adjectives—which made the learning hands‑on, visual, and fun. These activities have been outstanding and highly engaging, and the available TPT resources have played a major role in keeping students motivated, focused, and excited to write. Our hallway bulletin boards are now filled with student writing that showcases their hard work, development, and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1787088379378,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-better-writing-with-tpt-resour/10229802/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Better Writing with TPT Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"},{"teacherId":3959500,"projectId":10197700,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our STEAM Classroom Restock project! Your generosity has made such a positive difference in our classroom and has helped us continue creating the hands-on, welcoming learning environment our students love.\r\n\r\nThe new supplies are being put to great use every day. Our students are especially excited to have materials that allow them to be creative, explore, and enjoy learning in different ways. The markers, paint pens, and coloring supplies have become favorites during our \"mindful moments,\" giving students an opportunity to relax, express their creativity, and reset before returning to learning.\r\n\r\nThe games have also been a wonderful addition to our classroom. Students enjoy playing Ping Pong and Chess during downtime and rainy days, turning our lab tables into mini game areas where they can interact, problem-solve, and have fun together. Our multiplication flashcards have added some friendly competition between classes while helping students strengthen important math skills.\r\n\r\nEven the everyday classroom necessities such as tissues, paper towels, and Band-Aids make an incredible difference. Having these supplies readily available allows our classroom to remain comfortable, organized, and prepared so we can focus our energy on learning and creating.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these materials help make our classroom feel like a home away from home. Our students spend so much of their day here, and having engaging activities, creative materials, and basic supplies helps create a space where they feel comfortable, excited, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and helping us provide them with a classroom filled with creativity, exploration, fun, and meaningful learning opportunities. We are incredibly grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1781479618353,"projectUrl":"project/steam-classroom-restock/10197700/","projectTitle":"STEAM Classroom Restock!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Romatzick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3959500_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475176676069","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-romatzick"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":10229460,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom. Your generosity is already making a meaningful difference in the way my scholars approach writing, reading, and expressing their ideas with confidence.\r\n\r\nIn grade 3, students are using the RACE strategy posters to guide their written responses as they read How to Be Cool in School. These visual supports help them restate questions, answer clearly, cite evidence, and explain their thinking. Scholars who once felt unsure about how to begin a paragraph are now writing with structure and pride.\r\nIn grade 4, students are practicing essential editing skills by rereading sentences and correcting grammar and conventions. They have been highly engaged — and even excited — to use ink pens to mark corrections before rewriting sentences accurately. This hands‑on practice is already translating into stronger writing in their own work.\r\n\r\n Your support ensures they have the resources they need to continue developing their writing skills. Thank you for believing in them and investing in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1778019998668,"projectUrl":"project/releasing-all-writers/10229460/","projectTitle":"Releasing All Writers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"},{"teacherId":5628403,"projectId":9932846,"letterContent":"We just completed state testing, and the bedazzling and bracelet-making kits you provided offered the perfect way for students to decompress and connect. These activities encouraged teamwork and creativity—especially since students collaborated with classmates outside their usual friend groups.\r\nWith allergy season in full swing, the tissues and hand sanitizer have also been incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for supporting me and my students. Your kindness truly makes a difference in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1764790698456,"projectUrl":"project/getting-ready-for-winter/9932846/","projectTitle":"Getting Ready for Winter!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5628403_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1533582920554","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbrown2"},{"teacherId":116044,"projectId":9935578,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Let It Bee project! My students were incredibly excited when the materials arrived, especially since it's been a few years since we've had bees at our school. The moment the boxes came in, several students immediately wanted to start unboxing everything and couldn't wait to see what was inside. There was a real buzz of excitement in the room as they realized this was something they were actually going to be part of. Right now, we're in the process of clearing out our old hive area and getting everything ready, and now that the snow has finally melted, we're ready to get started!\r\n\r\nSo far, students have been exploring the hive components, learning how each part functions, and using our beekeeping books to build background knowledge. We've already begun connecting this work to our science curriculum by studying food webs, pollination, and human impact on ecosystems. It's been amazing to see their curiosity grow—students are asking thoughtful questions and beginning to understand just how important bees are to the environment and our food systems.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be installing the new hives and tending to our pollinator garden. My goal is for students to not only learn about ecosystems but also to truly see themselves as scientists making observations, asking questions, and taking responsibility for a living system. This project is helping them develop a deeper appreciation for nature and a sense of stewardship for the world around them. Thank you for making this meaningful, hands-on learning experience possible for my students; we truly couldn't do it without you!","fullyFundedDate":1764599811385,"projectUrl":"project/let-it-bee/9935578/","projectTitle":"Let It Bee","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beres","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp116044_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y60&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1696304399288","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sberes"},{"teacherId":6732239,"projectId":9644264,"letterContent":"I want to extend my gratitude for your generous support of our \"New Novel\" project. Thanks to your kindness, our students were able to begin reading The One and Only Bob this week, and they are absolutely loving it.\r\n\r\nIt has been great to watch them make meaningful connections between The One and Only Ivan and The One and Only Bob. As we read together, they are strengthening their fluency and reading comprehension skills by discussing the text, answering thoughtful questions, and diving deeper into the characters and themes.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for helping bring this project to life.","fullyFundedDate":1767627930029,"projectUrl":"project/new-novel-please/9644264/","projectTitle":"New Novel, Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lafontant","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6732239_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1568254279931","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/c-4th"},{"teacherId":1841360,"projectId":9896893,"letterContent":"Botley 2.0 robots have transformed the way my students approach problem-solving and critical thinking. Instead of just reading about coding concepts, they get to apply them hands-on by programming Botley to complete tasks. This makes abstract ideas like sequencing, loops, and logic come alive in a tangible, fun way. Students are learning to break big problems into smaller steps, test their ideas, and persevere when something doesn't work the first time, skills that go far beyond coding.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students is seeing their code come to life. When Botley moves exactly as they programmed it, there's this spark of confidence and pride. They also love the interactive challenges, like navigating mazes or carrying objects, which turn learning into a game. It feels like play, but they're building real-world STEM skills at the same time.\r\n\r\nI've seen students who were hesitant to participate in traditional lessons become leaders during coding activities. One student who rarely spoke up in class now volunteers to demonstrate her Botley programs to the group. Another student who struggles with reading has found success through coding because it's visual and hands-on. These robots have opened doors for learners who need different ways to shine.","fullyFundedDate":1763593806472,"projectUrl":"project/unlock-stem-success-botley-robots-for-y/9896893/","projectTitle":"Unlock STEM Success: Botley Robots for Young Coders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Servino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1841360_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536859519302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1841360"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":9749600,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! Your contribution has brought an exciting, hands-on approach to learning in our classroom. The magnetic tiles have been a game-changer for my students—they now use them to break words into syllables, apply syllabication rules, and confidently tackle big words they've never seen before. This strategy is helping them read more complex words like establish with the same ease as simple words like cat.\r\nThrough these engaging activities, students are not only improving their reading and spelling accuracy but also expanding their vocabulary and strengthening their writing skills. The joy and confidence they feel when they master new words is incredible, and it's all thanks to your generosity.\r\nYou've made learning fun, interactive, and effective for my students. We are so grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1758907288453,"projectUrl":"project/manipulating-words-with-magnetic-tiles/9749600/","projectTitle":"Manipulating Words with Magnetic Tiles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":9597643,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping me empower my middle school students through sports journalism writing. Your contribution has transformed our classroom into a hub of creativity and critical thinking.\r\nBecause of the laptop and Teacher Pay Teachers (TPT) resources you provided, students are now exploring the exciting world of sports and feature journalism. They are learning to research sports events, conduct interviews, and craft compelling narratives. Using circle maps to brainstorm ideas and T-charts to organize information, students are developing essential skills in communication, analysis, and perspective-taking.\r\nThe laptop has been a game-changer—it serves as the central hub for lessons and allows me to model digital tools like Canva, where students create flyers, announcements, newsletters, informational pamphlets, and even biography templates. These projects have given students authentic opportunities to write for real audiences, making writing meaningful and engaging.\r\nYour support has not only provided resources but has inspired students to think like journalists, collaborate, and express themselves confidently. Thank you for helping us make writing exciting and empowering for every learner.","fullyFundedDate":1758202934618,"projectUrl":"project/sports-writing-journalism-and-more/9597643/","projectTitle":"Sports Writing Journalism and More","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"},{"teacherId":993277,"projectId":9578436,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! Your contributions have truly enhanced our classroom environment and made a big difference for my students.\r\nBecause of your donations, students are enjoying a clean, comfortable, and engaging space where they can focus and thrive. The Febreze refills have created a calming atmosphere, while the Clorox wipes, Lysol spray, and gloves help keep our room sanitized and safe. Whiteboard markers and erasers have made interactive lessons exciting, and students love using them to show what they know. Rewards like smelly stickers and Jolly Ranchers have motivated students to work hard and stay engaged. Finally, the Paper Mate pens have allowed me to model writing lessons clearly, helping students follow along and improve their skills.\r\nYour generosity has brought joy, focus, and energy to our classroom. Thank you for helping us start the school year strong!","fullyFundedDate":1757440057208,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-the-students-desire-and-need/9578436/","projectTitle":"Supplies the Students Desire and Need","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Commodore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp993277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526941191845","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/993277"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_99405","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":495,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":24,"percentWhite":20,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":2,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":69.8,"schoolId":99405,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Interdistrict Discovery Magnet on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Interdistrict Discovery Magnet","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/bridgeport-public-schools/interdistrict-discovery-magnet-school/99405"}